STOPTOBER - OCT 24 Posted or Updated on 30 Sep 2024

Never give up on giving up. Every time you try to stop smoking, you’re a step closer to success.

Why quit?

One of the best reasons to quit is the benefit to your own health and wellbeing:

• smoking causes serious health problems, many of them life-threatening
• smoking increases your risk of stroke and heart disease, and your chances of developing respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema
• smoking can contribute to several types of cancer (not just lung cancer) and a certain type of leukaemia
• smoking can also damage your ability to conceive and is dangerous for your unborn child if you are pregnant
• smoking can damage the health of your family and friends through breathing second-hand smoke.

Stoptober

This October, join the 2.5 million people who’ve been inspired by Stoptober.

Even if it’s your first time or you’ve tried before, Stoptober gives you the perfect opportunity to quit smoking.

Stay smoke-free for 28 days, and you’re 5 times more likely to quit for good. With the right support, quitting is easier than you think.

Download the free NHS Quit Smoking app

Use the NHS Quit Smoking app to help you quit smoking and start breathing easier.

The app allows you to:

• track your progress
• see how much you’re saving
• get daily support

If you can make it to 28 days smoke-free, you’re 5 times more likely to quit for good!

• Download on Apple
• Download on Android

Where can I find local help to quit?

Essex Stop Smoking Service

Stop Smoking services are available, and free, to everyone living or working in Essex via the Essex Wellbeing Service. You can contact the service by calling 0300 303 9988, emailing provide.essexwellbeing@nhs.net or completing the online self assessment by clicking the link below.

Essex Wellbeing Service

Southend Stop Smoking Service

Smokers who live or work in Southend can access stop smoking support through the Everyone Health Lifestyle service.

You can call the team on 0333 005 0095 or email eh.southend@nhs.net alternatively, complete the referral form by clicking here. For health professionals that would like to refer a patient for stop smoking support, please click here.

Southend Stop Smoking Service

Thurrock Stop Smoking Service

Residents in Thurrock can get support to quit smoking through the Thurrock Healthy Lifestyles Service. You can call 0800 292 2299, email thls@thurrock.gov.uk or complete the online self referral form by clicking the link below.

Thurrock Healthy Lifestyle Service

Residents in Thurrock can attend various drop-in sessions, where Stop Smoking Advisors will be available to answer questions and offer information on local support to quit smoking. This includes the ‘Swap to Stop’ programme, which provides a free nicotine vape starter kit, 12 weeks of support, and top-up e-liquids to help smokers quit.